Ideal for Summer Season
Aptly nicknamed the “Virgin Islands of the North”, this idyllic island cluster on the USA/Canada border offers up an arresting tableau of sublime mountainous scenery, spectacular wildlife and charming fishing harbors, making a yacht charter around the San Juan islands a blissful once-in-a-lifetime experience. Explore the beautiful landmarks and enjoy the welcoming bonhomie of the San Juan Islands with our 8-day yacht charter itinerary.
- Day 1
Anacortes
Start your Pacific Northwest adventure here
With the nearest major airport to the archipelago, Anacortes is the ideal jumping off point for a yacht vacation around this exquisite region.
Located just off the northern coast of Washington State, the San Juan Islands are incredibly popular for crewed yacht rentals, where nature abounds and the pace of life is slower. This stunning archipelago, made up of 172 named islands and reefs, offers relaxed and tranquil cruising, with short hops between islands.
The crown jewel of Fidalgo Island, Anacortes is the perfect gateway to the islands renowned for its historic waterfront, miles of hiking trails and wealth of cultural venues.
- Day 2
Lummi Island
Pocket-sized island of unspoilt beauty
The tiny island which lies to the north of Anacortes is only 9 km long, with only a handful of residents and no major tourist attractions it's a tranquil haven, and the perfect place to dial it right back and … relax.
Only accessible by boat, the real reason for visiting is to experience the spellbinding views and unspoilt beauty of this bucolic isle. Picturesque vistas and serene coastline aside, this tiny island also plays host to an artisan wine gallery and a number of beautiful hiking trails through stately pines, as well as a number of water activities, including guided kayaking tours where you can witness the formidable orca pods that patrol these waters from May through September.
- Day 3
Orcas Island
Prime spot for orcas and other majestic fauna
One of the most popular islands in the San Juan archipelago is the horseshoe-shaped Orcas Island; the largest of the San Juans from where, you may have already guessed, the region’s orca population can best be viewed.
Nicknamed the “Gem of the San Juans”, Orcas Island is a truly magical setting with a thriving art scene and vast array of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed around its lush forests, placid lakes and serene coastline. Whether by bike, on foot or even on horseback, immerse yourself in nature at its finest. Hike to the summit of the tallest mountain in the archipelago, Mount Constitution – rising skyward for nearly half-a-mile – for sublime panoramic vistas, keeping an eye out for bald eagles, deer and more than 250 species of birds.
There is also a healthy range of delectable dining options, and even a resort spa for the ultimate indulgence on your Pacific Northwest yacht vacation.
- Day 4
Sucia Island
Picturesque anchorage spot
After a heavenly breakfast on board, up anchor and make a beeline for Sucia Island, the crown jewel of the San Juan Islands.
This island is awash with picturesque anchorages around its 14 miles or so of shoreline hugging the coast. Spend the day marvelling at one-of-a-kind geological formations and enjoy the astonishingly pretty views across the sound.
Back on the yacht, round off your day on the west side of the island with a stunning sunset in Shallow Bay.
- Day 5
Waldron Island & Deer Harbor
Idyllic splendor
Be sure to include a stop at the private Waldron Island, located off the northwest shore of Orcas island.
Characterised by its pristine beauty, the island offers a serenely peaceful setting for for you and your guests to enjoy a spot of lunch, while basking in the sound of gentle waves lapping at the hull, accompanied by bird song and the occasional splash from a passing minke whale or fish-hunting cormorant.
The natural preserves along Cowlitz Bay and Point Disney provide the opportunity for a post-prandial stroll before returning to the yacht to head across the sound to a berth in Deer Harbor marina on Orcas Island.
Tucked between two peninsulas on Orcas Island's west side, Deer Harbor is a postcard-pretty village with a sandy beach, casual bars and an elegant eatery at the Deer Harbor Inn Restaurant, where you and your guests can enjoy local fare with an upmarket twist, while looking out over mill-pond calm waters to the majestic Olympic Mountain range backdrop.
- Day 6
San Juan Island
The second largest island in the archipelago
San Juan Island is a cultural haven offering plenty of amenities coupled with scenic views and abundance of nature, both in and out of the water.
The yacht will park up in Roche Harbor for the day and night, giving you and your guests the opportunity to explore your surroundings with ease. Whether that’s whale watching, wandering through the sculpture park or hiking, there's plenty of activities on offer. There's also myriad holiday celebrations and annual events taking place throughout the season, so you can be sure there will be something for everyone to enjoy during your stay.
The 4th of July is, of course, a very special day in the American calendar, with Roche Harbor celebrating it with a wide range of festivities; from games and contests to a firework extravaganza in the marina. Be sure to tell your yacht broker in advance if you are interested, in order to secure a berth for the night.
- Day 7
Friday Harbor
Rich history and delectable dining with a view
Friday Harbor on San Juan Island's eastern flank is a hugely popular stop off for yacht charters, and especially known for its history, being the famous “Pig War” site of the confrontation between British and Americans troops in 1859.
Friday Harbor also offers a welath of wineries and artisan farms, with plenty of other diversions to enjoy on the island. Meander through bustling markets and stop off at one of the myriad bars and cafes that line the harborfront.
Friday Harbor House on the island's east coast is a hugely popular stop-off for yacht charters; a warm and friendly eatery boasting an enticing menu and expansive double deck area for alfresco meals during the summer months, complete with beautiful panoramic vistas over the marina.
Find out more:
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Friday Harbor House
Restaurants
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Friday Harbor House
- Day 8
Anacortes
Disembark in Anacortes
All good things must come to an end.
Up anchor and spend your final day cruising past Lopez Island and into the Rosario Strait, where you can enjoy nature at its finest with the warm sun on your face and a trove of memories to savor, before finishing back at the marina in Anacortes.
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*All distances are approximate
